“They asked Jesus, “Do you hear what these children are saying?” “Yes,” Jesus replied. “Haven’t you ever read the Scriptures? For they say, ‘You have taught children and infants to give you praise.’” Matthew 21:16 NLT

Dear Friends,

It is deeply gratifying to see our children and grandchildren listen to their conscience – to the Holy Spirit speaking to their hearts! (Acts 24:16) John wrote, “I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.” (3 John 1:4) Eagerness to learn, openness, honesty, and humility are character qualities God wants in our children as well as our own lives. After all, these are the marks of a true disciple of Christ! God help us be humble and teachable. Our children are imitating us! Here is a recent story that illustrates having a childlike faith.

Men’s Meeting Last week we had our church men’s meeting at Grace and Ward’s house. Will and Fred are their two six-year-old sons - pictured in this photo. Will (on the left in the photo) was insistent on joining our men's group. He even got dressed up and wore a long-sleeved dress shirt, even though we cooked hot dogs and sat outside around a picnic table. After we started eating, his father explained to Will what we do. “We go around the group and ask each guy, “What has God been teaching you lately?” Will jumped right in and said, “God has been teaching me to be nice.” I asked him, “Who have you not been nice to?” He responded, “My parents and my brother. I have a problem with anger.” We were all touched by his honesty and self-awareness. Even the children were praising God that evening!

When each guy finished sharing what God was teaching them, and how we could pray for them, Will asked Freddy the same question. He said, “Freddy, what has God been teaching you?” Freddy didn’t hesitate. He replied, “Math and Reading.” We had a hard time not laughing, but his sincere answer was also profound and true! Grace is his homeschool teacher.

Mother’s 100^th Birthday Party God gave us a beautiful sunny day to celebrate mother’s 100^th birthday in her back yard. It can be dicey weather in March. Mom sat and talked for hours with her large family. We assembled to thank God for her kindness, generosity, and the love that she has demonstrated toward all of us. She has been a tremendous gift from Him!

Mario He works at the Amazon Return Center. That is where I met Mario a few weeks ago. I gave him and his coworker my testimony tract. I briefly shared how much I needed God’s forgiveness and that is why I trusted Jesus Christ to forgive my sins and make me His child. It was quick since other customers started coming to the counter. A week later I returned a package for my mother and Mario was there again. I asked him, “What did you think about my testimony?” He responded, “I really liked it!” With that green light, I proceeded to share the entire gospel since nobody was in line. Tears came to his eyes as we talked. I sensed his openness to the Holy Spirit working in his heart. A customer came up so I had to leave. I have returned several times to follow up and he has not been there. I’m going to keep trying!

 

Prayer & Praise

Carbondale, IL Church Many of their children are now playing baseball, which makes attending their Sunday gatherings difficult. Pray they would be creative to build community.

Springfield, TN Church Pray for their cookout/outreach at the park April 18^th. Ask God for good connections with the visitors, and for Him to touch lives with the gospel.

Virginia Church Pray for the two churches. They are both struggling with different problems – one spouse with addictions and another who is a prideful unbeliever.  

Atlanta Church Pray for more opportunities for me to meet with Mario and for his salvation. Pray for our church to grow in our compassion for unbelievers. Pray for our church to learn some new evangelism tools, and that we will enjoy using them with our neighbors and friends.

Humbly Yours, 

Steve and Danelle    

PS. Danelle and I also went to Birmingham, AL to see our granddaughter, Jasper, run at a track meet. She ran a PR and we were able to visit briefly with her afterwards. She really appreciated us coming to support her!

 

 

 

        

www.reliant.org

11002 Lake Hart Dr, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32832

Nelson blog: www.gcmnelson.com      

 

“But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.”  Philippians 3:20 NLT

 

Dear Children of God,

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Did you know that Patrick was actually British? He was 17 when he was kidnaped by Irish raiders and held captive for seven years. During that time, he had an encounter with God while working out in fields. Patrick escaped and returned to England. But God had different plans for him. God sent him back to Ireland where he spread the gospel of Christ for 40 years. He died in Ireland on March 17, 461. What can we learn from how God used the trauma in Patrick’s life? Here are two more examples of God’s wake-up calls. Romans 8:28

Trauma, isolation, illness, death, as well as birthdays, weddings, and other major events can cause us to stop, listen to God, and evaluate our lives in light of eternity. God got my attention recently as I had vertigo and my blood pressure was 193/89 one night! I was not sure if I would make it. God used that trauma to remind me of my mortality and to refocus on His purpose. One more event…

God uses birthdays to get our attention. We will celebrate my Mother’s 100^th birthday on March 13^th! We are deeply grateful for her influence on our lives! We don’t want her to leave us, but we know there will be a day when she departs. She is a citizen of heaven! We want her to eagerly wait for Jesus to return and take her home. Are you eagerly waiting for Him to return for you? It is soul-cleansing to do so! Come Lord Jesus!

GA Outreach Last week I went to Athens to join my good friend, Rich Suplita, to share Christ with students on the UGA campus. We had several in-depth gospel conversations, especially with a coed named Morgan. She was very excited to get a copy of Secure In An Insecure World to read! We also passed out my testimony tract on and off campus. I always enjoy my fellowship with Rich! His heart for people is refreshing to observe. We enjoy our own a non-stop conversation for hours about sharing Christ, building the church, and making disciples.

 

Prayer & Praise

Carbondale Church They have twenty-five people meeting with them now, including two new families. Pray for them to come to know Christ. Pray too for the youth to take ownership of their faith and to help one another grow during their gatherings.

Springfield Church Praise - Mike’s father is better! Pray for people to get saved and join them.

Virginia Church Pray for them to grow in their devotion to Christ and love for one another.

Atlanta Church Pray for more opportunities for me to meet with Nick. He is sharing the gospel with Eric, a co-worker. Eric was raised Catholic, and is sincerely seeking to understand that salvation is by grace and not by his own efforts. It’s exciting to watch God work in their lives!

UGA Students Pray for Morgan & the other students we met to turn to Christ for eternal life!

Looking for Jesus’ return,

Steve and Danelle    

 

 

 

 

 

 

                Several of the students we met

 

 

 

 

        

www.reliant.org

11002 Lake Hart Dr, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32832

Nelson blog: www.gcmnelson.com      

Nelson Newsletter - February 2026

 “We love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19

 

Dear Followers of Christ,

Valentines is a popular event in February. The average amount spent on cards, gifts and meals is about $200. Wow! Is the love we receive proportional to the amount of money we spend on others? The lyrics in an old Beatles song seems apropos. “Money can’t buy me love,” One would think we must have figured it out what works by now! Unfortunately, our relationships show the opposite.  So what can bring us love? What is love and how do we find it? What can we learn from God about love. After all, “God is love.”

As followers of Christ, we realized that we were selfish and not able to love sacrificially as God loves. It was not within our nature. We asked God to save us from our selfishness in response to His loving us first in our helpless condition. See 1 John 4:19 above. God loved all sinners, “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Now that we are His children, we have the Holy Spirit who empowers us to deny ourselves and put needs of others ahead of our own. “For God did not give us a Spirit of fear but of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7 We can now practice this kind of love, “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4 This is real love! The kind of love that people are longing for! 

Atlanta House Church We continue to pray for God to give each of us a personal goal and how to live it out in practical ways. We are also sharing Christ with people in our community. It is the most loving thing we can do for others! Recently, I met DJ at LA Fitness. He was preparing to teach swimming lessons to his class. We had an open and honest discussion about how to be saved by grace and not by our good deeds. I expressed my desire to meet up soon for further discussion. He gave me his number, and I hope to see him soon to follow up!

Prayer & Praise

Carbondale Church Stephanie met a young woman who wants to visit their church. There is also a homeschool family who wants to come one Sunday. None of them are Christians yet.  

Springfield Church Mike’s father has health problems. Pray too for people to come to Christ.

Virginia Church Pray for Josh’s high blood pressure. A friend of Sarah’s, Ellie, just had a miscarriage. Pray for God’s comfort and care to be real to her and her husband.

Atlanta Church Pray for more opportunities to get with DJ, and that God would save him. Pray too for Grace and Ward’s two six-year-old son’s, Will and Fred, to come to know Jesus. Pray for some of our members’ adult children to seek the Lord wholeheartedly and follow Him.  Finally, several of our members have elderly parents with significant health needs. Pray for God’s wisdom and grace to love and serve them well.

Nick – He finished his testimony tract. Most importantly, his love for the lost has grown, and he has shared the gospel on his own initiative! Pray for Nick and his wife to keep fishing for men!

Yours in Christ’s sacrificial love,

Steve and Danelle    

  

  

        

www.reliant.org

11002 Lake Hart Dr, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32832

Nelson blog: www.gcmnelson.com      

Nelson Newsletter - January 2026

 

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33

Dear Friends,

Each New Year is a new opportunity to seek first God and His Kingdom. Matthew 6:33-34. It is a time to evaluate what we are doing, why, and in what ways He wants to mature us. “So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 Pray for God to motivate Danelle and I with the love of Christ to seek first His Kingdom in 2026 and help others to do the same. May God grow your faith as you too seek Him first!

Atlanta House Church We are taking this month to evaluate our lives and ask God to help us follow Matthew 6:33. We are asking God for a specific goal for each of us and how to live it out in practical ways. Here is a recent illustration of seeking His Kingdom first.

A few months ago, I went to see our dermatologist, Ann, for a checkup.  I had been going to her practice for several years and we had developed a friendship. She is single, so I had suggested she read my book, Secure In An Insecure World. During the exam she found a suspicious area on my ear and did a biopsy. She said they would call me immediately if there was anything serious. I left praying for her to come to know Jesus. 

After a few weeks without a call from the office, God put it on my heart to take a copy of my book to Ann. She was excited and thankful to receive the book. I said, “I guess I am okay since I never heard from you all?” She stopped, stared at me for a moment, and said, “No. I want you to see something.” She showed me on her iPad that I had cancer and needed Mohs surgery. Apparently, someone forgot to call me. I think, since I was seeking God and His kingdom, He was watching out for me. I had the surgery and all is good.  Lesson to learn: Always seek first God and His Kingdom and He will take care of you!

                                                                           After My Ear Surgery

Prayer & Praise

Carbondale Church They have been unable to meet due to illness. They are studying Thessalonians remotely until they get well. Ask God for their healing and for spiritual growth.  “I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in your word.” Psalm 119:145

Springfield Church Pray for people to get saved and to help them multiply disciples.

Virginia Church Pray for Sarah and Josh. She has started homeschooling their oldest twin boys. Pray too for Jeff. He has a new job that is physically challenging for his poor health.

Atlanta Church Pray for Daniel Moore. He is a young man I met a few weeks ago who made a profession of faith last year. Pray for his passion for God and His word to grow so he can overcome sinful habits. I met his mother, Mary, last week. She was excited to hear about my involvement in her son’s life.  Pray for me to be an effective mentor.                                                              

Nick – We have met a few times to discuss evangelism and how to write his testimony tract. Pray his love for the lost to grow so that he will boldly share Christ. Pray for his new marriage.                                              

Dr. Ann - Ask God to use my book to bring her to faith in Christ. I will see her in March.     

Finally, pray for our church to seek God in 2026 - to know His will and follow Him fully. Ask God to use us to bring many others to know Christ and to make faithful disciples.

Thanks for your support and prayers! We begin the year in a healthy financial place! Praise God!

Yours in Christ’s love,

Steve and Danelle    

        

www.reliant.org

11002 Lake Hart Dr, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32832

Nelson blog: www.gcmnelson.com   

   

                                                                              Nelson  Christmas

Nelson Newsletter - December 2025

 

“For a Child will be born to us, a Son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 Fellow Receivers of God’s Gift, God The Ultimate Giver! All good gifts come from Him. He so loved us that He gave His Son Jesus to die for our sins. He gives life and breath to all creatures. Man, on the other hand, is the consummate taker. We are born takers because of our selfish nature. The Good News is that Jesus can set us free if we repent and trust Him!! Praise God for the Gift of His Son! Anyone can have His love and forgiveness! Let us share God’s Gift with unbelievers this Christmas!   Tallahassee Trip Danelle and I always enjoy being with college students who are serious about following the Lord! Our trip to Tallahassee last month was one of rich fellowship and worship with the church. We joined in their Friday night dinner and fellowship at the Gordon's house. Saturday, we spent with our host family, Antoine and Amie Diot, and their four children, going to soccer games, buying garden supplies, and enjoying meals together. We listened to each other tell how God has worked miraculously in all of our lives over the years. Sunday, the entire church gathered for fellowship and worship. I was excited to be able to speak from John chapter 4 about Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman. He sincerely cared about her, and she knew it! They had a deep, heart to heart conversation that led to her conversion! She received the "Living Water" that Jesus offered her - Himself! Thank you for praying for our time with these saints!      Prayer & Praise Thank you for giving generously to our work in 2025! Would you consider becoming a monthly ministry partner or sending a special gift for our support? Please use the Reliant website or mail your check to their address. You can find both below. Remember to use our account number (5951) when you donate. Thank you for being a vital part of our ministry! Yours because God gave, Steve and Danelle              www.reliant.org 11002 Lake Hart Dr, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32832 Nelson blog: www.gcmnelson.com       Nelson Family Thanksgiving

Nelson Newsletter - November 2025

 

 “Look among the nations! Observe! Be astonished! Wonder!
Because I am doing something in your days—
You would not believe if you were told. Habakkuk 1:5

 

Dear Men and Women of faith,

God is doing something beautiful, miraculous, and glorious in our day! People are getting saved and growing in their faith! God is working in and through His church – you and me! “He who provides you with the Spirit and works miracles (present tense) among you.” Galatians 3:5 Thank you for your vital part in His work through your prayers and your gifts to our ministry!

 House Church Conference (Oct 28 - Nov 1) It was exciting to watch believers from 5 different churches love the Lord Jesus together, listen to and encourage one another, cheerfully serve each other, pray fervently for each other, and embrace the common goal of God’s mission to make disciples. Much work, preparation, and prayer went into this event. As a result we observed God build His church as each person was all in, “according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.” Eph 4:16 Praise Jesus!

 

    Discussion: Our Relationship With God          

 

            Discussion: Navigating Difficult Subjects

Prayer & Praise

Thank you for supporting our work in the gospel in 2025. Please consider a special gift to sustain us through 2026. You can use the Reliant website below or mail a check to their address. Please use our account number, 5951, when you donate. Thank you for your gifts and prayers!

Yours in Christ’s unchanging love,

Steve and Danelle    

      

www.reliant.org

11002 Lake Hart Dr, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32832

Nelson blog: www.gcmnelson.com      

   

                Many hands made work (meals) light                       

Barrie shared his testimony

 

                                                      The next generation of disciples!

           

Nelson Newsletter - October 2025

 

“I love the Lord, because He hears my voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I shall call upon Him as long as I live.” Psalm 116:1-2

Dear Prayer Warriors,

Someone once said, “Desperate times call for desperate measures.” We live in desperate times! Many around us are broken because of their sin and desperate need of a Savior! Therefore, we are asking for your fervent prayers for these two upcoming events. Thank you very much!

Prayer & Praise

“We have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding”  Colossians 1:9-10

House Church Conference (Oct 28 - Nov 1) There will be about 50 folks coming from five different churches to seek God together! Ask God to lead us in Spirit-filled worship, edifying fellowship, life-transforming Bible discussions, and fervent prayer. We want to build one another’s faith and grow in our love for Jesus and His mission to reach the lost & make disciples.

Church in Tallahassee (Nov 7-9) Danelle and I were invited by the pastors of the local church to teach. The church is comprised of both Florida State students and community members. Pray for teachable hearts. Ask God to give me wisdom and grace to discern & minister to their needs.

Yours in Christ’s love,

Steve and Danelle    

PS. Thank you for praying for our 50^th anniversary trip. We were healthy enough to do a lot of hiking and enjoy God’s magnificent creation. We relished precious time together, reflecting on His work in our lives and our family. We heard God speak to us through His word. We prayed together a lot. And we had some special meals as well. God has been gracious to us! Praise Him!

        

www.reliant.org

11002 Lake Hart Dr, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32832

Nelson blog: www.gcmnelson.com